Have you ever wondered how braces are able to straighten teeth and create beautiful smiles? It might seem like magic, but there’s actually science behind it! Let’s break it down simply, so everyone can understand exactly how braces work.
Why Do People Need Braces?
Teeth can sometimes grow crooked, crowded, or misaligned. This happens for many reasons like genetics, thumb-sucking habits, or early loss of baby teeth. There are many common orthodontic problems. Braces are used to gently move teeth into their correct positions, making your bite more comfortable and your smile brighter!
How Do Braces Work?
Braces consist of a few important parts:
- Brackets: Small squares (usually made of metal) that are glued to each tooth. Think of them as handles.
- Archwire: A thin wire that runs through each bracket. It gently pulls on the brackets to move and guide the teeth into the correct positions.
- O-rings: Tiny rubber rings that hold the wire in place on the brackets. There are many fun colors for you to choose from at each appointment! Sometimes, the o-rings are connected into what is called a “power chain.” Power chains give an extra push to keep your teeth moving and close any gaps.
When braces are first applied, the archwire puts gentle, steady pressure on your teeth. This pressure slowly moves teeth into new positions. Your orthodontist will adjust and/or bend the wire as needed to make sure your teeth move correctly and safely. Over time, this process results in straight, aligned teeth!
The Role of Elastics in Braces Treatment
Elastics, or rubber bands, play a critical role in braces treatment. They connect brackets on your upper teeth to brackets on your lower teeth to create additional force that corrects your bite. Whether you have an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, elastics help align your jaw by adjusting how your upper and lower teeth fit together. Properly aligning your bite not only makes it more comfortable, but it prevents any added stress and wear on your teeth over time. It’s important to wear elastics exactly as your orthodontist recommends to ensure your treatment progresses as planned.
Regular Adjustments
During treatment, you will have to visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments. These visits are important because they allow your orthodontist to adjust the tension on your braces, guiding your teeth little-by-little into their perfect positions. Braces left unattended or unmonitored by a professional can cause damage to your teeth and mouth.
Orthodontic Evaluations from Ages 7 and Up
The American Association of Orthodontists recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can identify potential issues early, making treatment easier and sometimes shorter. However, orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids—adults can benefit from braces too! It’s never too late to work towards your ideal smile, and adults can achieve wonderful results from orthodontic care at any age.
What Happens After Braces?
After your braces are removed, your orthodontist will give you a retainer. Retainers keep teeth from shifting back, helping maintain your beautiful new smile. Retainers are worn full-time (22+ hours a day) for the first few months, then at nighttime for a lifetime! If you don’t wear your retainer as instructed, your teeth can easily move out of position and undo all the hard work you put in during treatment!
How Long Does Braces Treatment Take?
Every mouth is different, but most people wear braces for about one to three years. Patience and good oral care during this time are essential for the best results. It’s important for you and the orthodontist to be thorough during treatment to ensure you are getting the best results possible. Braces might take some time, but the result—a confident, healthy smile—is always worth it!
Interested in learning more about how braces could benefit you or your child? Schedule a free consultation with Embrace Orthodontics to find out more about your options and to create a treatment plan with Dr. Li that works best for you!
